CLACK. CLACK.
The heavy doors of the Federation's Grand Hall creaked open, letting in the echo of boots against polished marble. Igaris Vance and Evernight walked calmly through the golden archway, led by two ceremonial guards.
Their path ended at the heart of the chamber—a vast round table where twenty of the most powerful councilors in the Federation sat, cloaked in various garments of rank and color.
All eyes landed on the two.
Some widened in awe. Others narrowed in scrutiny.
"Ladies and gentlemen," a man with refined features and perfectly combed hair stood up, adjusting his square glasses. His voice rang with elegance. "Today, the Architect's Heir, Igaris Vance, and the Architect's Daughter Calypso grace us with their presence. Let us give them a warm welcome."
CLAP. CLAP. CLAP.
Applause broke out. Some clapped with genuine excitement, others with lazy indifference. A few barely moved their hands, offering only hollow gestures of protocol.